The ICC has found a solution for the conflict between India and Pakistan in terms of hosting cricket matches. The Pakistan Cricket Board has ultimately agreed to play their games at a neutral venue in exchange for a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy in 2025 and the T20 World Cup in India in 2026. It has been reported that ICC Chairman Jay Shah will hold a virtual meeting with PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday to finalize the details of this agreement.
The ongoing dispute over Pakistan hosting the Champions Trophy 2025 has led to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) requesting a written guarantee from the ICC for a hybrid model in the tournament. In case India qualifies, they will play their matches in Dubai while Pakistan will host the rest. The decision on the tournament is expected to be made by Wednesday.
The International Cricket Council has come to an agreement to host the 2025 Champions Trophy in a hybrid format, with India playing their matches in Dubai. This decision was made during a meeting between ICC's new President Jay Shah and the Board of Directors at the headquarters in Dubai. The ICC source states that this is a positive outcome for all involved parties and that this arrangement may also be extended to other multi-lateral events until 2027.
In a recent development, it has been reported that Team India will not be playing in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. Instead, they have expressed their intention to play their matches at a neutral venue. This decision comes amidst ongoing tensions between the two countries, as well as concerns over the safety and security of the players. The announcement has sparked debates among fans and experts alike, with many questioning the implications of this move on future sports diplomacy between India and Pakistan.
Amidst reports claiming that India will not be participating in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Pakistan, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has denied any official information regarding the matter. India has not played in Pakistan since the 2008 Asia Cup and political tensions between the two nations remain a major hurdle. If India does withdraw, Sri Lanka will take their place in the tournament.